I always make it a point to stay in constant contact with past clients, either via e-mail or by phone. I try my best to contact each one at least once every 6-8 weeks to check in on them and to see how they are doing.
Over the course of the past few weeks I have changed the tempo of the conversation a bit and have been discussing the current market and where their position is in relation to it. As I know that each one has a different agenda and time-line for their future plans I felt it pertinent to see where they stood in the big scheme of things.
Most were happy with their homes and had no intention of selling anytime soon. This is what I pretty much figured.
But there were a few who were getting worried about their equity positions in their homes as their lives had changed. This was either due to job transfer, new additions to the family, job changes etc.
One particular couple whom closed their home last November and walked in over $100k equity positive was getting ready to do a $40 renovation. This all sounded great until they went on to tell me that they may be relocating due to a possible job transfer. The problem was that the improvements that they were going to make would not be recouped in the price of the home. They would end up upside down.
They figured that they had enough equity left int he home that they would at least break even in a slow market should they need to sell. The one thing that they did not calculate in was the cost of selling the home if they needed to. Once they figured that cost into everything they realized that they are right now at a break even and after the renovation they would be upside down.
Long story short they have decided to wait on the improvements.
They went on to thank me for looking out for them and to let me know that should the transfer happen that they would not even think twice about using me.
If you get a moment make the call and let your past clients know that you are still there and looking out for them. Protect them the best you can. It is the service and caring after the sale that will take you farther in this business.
BE PROACTIVE
Joe Zapata - Your Burbank Real Estate Expert
;)
;)
Joe,
Great post and timing is perfect. Thanks for sharing your knowlege.